12 February 2010 07:00

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JAMIE CARRAGHER is facing a race against time to be fit for Liverpool's crucial Premier League trip to Manchester City next Sunday - but Fernando Torres is on the comeback trail.[LNB]The Reds defender was forced off during Wednesday night's 1-0 defeat at Arsenal after tweaking his groin and has been ruled out for seven to 10 days.[LNB]Carragher is doubtful for next Thursday's Europa League clash with Romanian champions Unirea Urziceni at Anfield and Rafa Benitez will take no chances with his vice-captain ahead of the potentially season-defining contest at Eastlands.[LNB]The manager's major concern will be ensuring Carragher is ready to face Roberto Mancini's side.[LNB]Manchester City pose the greatest threat to fourth placed Liverpool's hopes of Champions League qualification and if the 32-year-old was to miss out it would be a huge blow.[LNB]As Carragher focuses on a speedy return to action, Torres is stepping up his rehabilitation at Melwood.[LNB]The Spanish striker, who has been out since he suffered a knee injury in the FA Cup defeat to Reading a month ago, has started running again.[LNB]When the Reds' 12-goal top scorer underwent surgery to repair torn cartilage he was told he would be missing for six weeks.[LNB]Benitez is reluctant to put a time frame on Torres' return to action and will resist the temptation to rush him back.[LNB]The manager intends to monitor his progress over the next week before deciding whether he's capable of playing a part against City.